member news
Next generation glass blasting media combats stainless steel corrosion Pure Glass Media joins Sassda to drive sustainable innovation in stainless steel surface preparation South African company Pure Glass Media has recently become a member of the Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association (Sassda), marking a significant step in its mission to promote sustainable surface preparation solutions within the industry. As the sales and distribution arm of Reclite SA, which specialises in recycling electronic waste into industrial materials, Pure Glass Media aims to use its Sassda membership to engage with key industry players, drive awareness, and advocate for the adoption of locally manufactured, recycled glass-based blasting media.
Pure Glass Media Operations Director Louise Cousins says, “Many in the industry are still unaware that glass media can be sourced locally and that it provides a viable alternative to traditional abrasives. By joining Sassda, we hope to bridge this knowledge gap and encourage more businesses to consider sustainable options for their stainless steel surface preparation needs.” A shift in stainless steel blasting practices Stainless steel finishing often relies on abrasive blasting methods using materials such as imported glass beads and steel shot as well as chemicals to clean surfaces following
blasting. However, the supply chain for these materials can be unreliable, with disruptions caused by shipping
delays, rising costs, and environmental concerns.
Cousins adds, “Glass media for blasting has traditionally been imported, making it both expensive and subject to logistical delays. By
manufacturing it locally, we ensure greater availability while significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with transport and mining.” Manufacturing from electronic waste One of the defining features of the Reclite SA
aligns with the principles of the circular economy, reducing landfill waste and creating a closed-loop recycling system. The recycling and reprocessing of electronic waste into industrial-grade glass media is an emerging sector in South Africa, addressing one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally.
product, is its origin. The glass used in the blasting media is sourced from electronic waste, including materials such as old light bulbs and, glass used in electronics. This process
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